Addiction Relapse Prevention in Boston MA
Addiction recovery is a life-long commitment and a serious challenge for many. Rehab treatment programs provide addicts with the recovery tools they need in order to build a new life. For many who finish treatment though, it can be difficult to resist the temptations that once controlled their lives, especially if they are not aware of relapse prevention techniques. If an addict falls back into substance abuse after achieving sobriety, they are said to have relapsed. Relapse prevention is extremely important because it can happen to anyone, whether they are just a few days clean or have been sober for decades.
Relapse prevention should not be considered once the addict suspects they may relapse. They should have a plan to avoid it before the problem presents itself. Understanding the stages of relapse and triggers/warning signs associated with relapse prevention will help an addict avoid the emotional challenges they could potentially face during their on-going path to recovery. Many people lose their motivation to return to a rehab treatment center after being filled with guilt and remorse from a relapse. Prevention is not preparing for the worst, but striving for the best.
Stages of Relapse
Relapse is not an event, it is a process. Understanding the main stages of relapse is a recovery tool to aid in rehabilitation and recovery. Remember that the temptation for drug and alcohol abuse does not have a time frame, nor does it have just one way of presenting itself. Emotional relapse, mental relapse, and physical relapse are all ways in which a drug or alcohol addiction can once again show itself.
- Emotional Relapse -An addict has not yet thought about using, but their emotions could be a sign of a possible relapse in the future. Some of these emotions include anxiety, anger, isolation and poor eating and sleeping habits.
- Mental Relapse - An addict is fighting within themselves. Part of them wants to use, but part of them wants to stick to sobriety. Signs of mental relapse can include glamorizing the past, lying, hanging out with old friends and thinking about relapsing.
- Physical Relapse - During this phase the addict has very strong urges to revert back to old ways. It is very difficult to stop the process of relapse at this point. All is not lost at the relapse stage though. If the individual has the right recovery treatment and tools, they may be able to return to the recovery path.
Relapse Triggers
There are cases in which relapse can occur suddenly, and the addict can give in without attempting to reach out for help. Although in most cases, certain emotions or situations can be warning signs of potential relapse. These scenarios can be both negative and positive.
- ??Major financial changes
- Change in employment
- ?Social pressures or conflicts
- Change in relationship status
- Loss of a loved one
- Health Issues
- ?Being in the presence of a place you used to use drugs?•Positive feelings that make you want to celebrate
- Getting high on any drug
- Listening to old stories and reminiscing on getting high
- Suddenly coming into money
Factors vary for each situation and person, but causes of relapse usually include emotional triggers, social situations and physical changes. If you or a loved one seems to be suddenly not fulfilling their responsibilities, exhibiting severe emotional instability, changes in personal hygiene, sleep, or appetite, and/or exhibiting unusually excessive behavior, an intervention should be considered.
Relapse Prevention Techniques
The treatment and recovery centers at Drug Rehab Boston will give you the tools to make a successful recovery from your addiction. In addition to relapse education such as warning sign identification, Drug Rehab Boston offers its patients care from skilled professionals, provides individualized and group counseling and encourages you to build positive support groups.
Other prevention techniques provided by the treatment and rehabilitation center include:
- 12-step meetings
- Meditation techniques
- Sponsorship programs
- Exposure to new hobbies
Relapse prevention is not simply about developing the ability to say no to your substance of choice. This might not be possible for a person who struggles with chemical dependency. Relapse prevention is being exposed to the knowledge and resources required to overcome the addiction. Call Drug Rehab Boston at 617-336-0107 today to find out more about the different centers available for you, as well as how to get your life back on track through addiction treatment.